THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 1016
YEAR: 1960
BOX/PAPERS: YES/YES
CASE DIAMETER: 36mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

The 1016 Explorer holds the title of the Rolex watch with the longest continual production - originally launched in 1959 and made until 1989. It is also the first Rolex watch to carry the now common "Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified (SCOC)" text on the dial. The simple yet classy design of the 1016 stood the test of time - with modern explorers largely retaining its look. 

Over the 30-year production run of 1016, over 10 dial variations were seen. Amongst these, gilt dials were only produced until the late 1960s and in much smaller numbers, adding to their collectibility and value. 

The present example has a "Type 1 Chater Ring" dial, which is in fact the second gilt dial variation (there is a very-rarely-seen MK0 "OCC" dial, just to add more confusion to the nomenclature). This is the first Rolex model to carry the "SCOC" text, designating the use of the new Cal. 1560 "microstella movement". 

The watch retains its original radium dial as confirmed by our Geiger counter. The hands look to have been replaced in the mid sixties, they have the earlier "glowy tritium" as its known, a service caseback engraving dating 64 would also go towards validating this point. The case is still very full it looks to have been polished a long time ago, the case shows typical signs of use which definitely adds to the charm. 

A correct new old stock T22 acrylic dome has been fitted to the watch. The movement is running well at -6 secs per day and around 210 amps with the crown down. The original box and chronometer papers have survived intact, they are dated November 1960. 

This early gilt variant is a rare sight these days, its an honour to see one with its original dial as so many have been relumed. We have paired the watch with a period correct USA stamped rivet dated 1/70 and a cool straight lug BOR bracelet from Forstner.